Costa Rica
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) has a long history of supporting theological education in Costa Rica. The PC(USA) is also in ministry with partner groups and mission personnel in holistic ministries of new church development, evangelism and health ministries. Our mission co-workers serve as educators in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica borders the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Caribbean Sea to the east, Nicaragua to the north, and Panama to the south. It has one of the highest life expectancy rates in Central America. Tourism and commerce are Costa Rica’s main industries, accounting for 68 percent of its GDP. It has a growing technology/computer chip industry, and its main agricultural products include bananas, coffee, sugar, and beef. In spite of its long commitment to social welfare and education, Costa Rica is increasingly dealing with critical issues including poverty, debates over widespread immigration from Nicaragua due to extreme poverty in that country, drug trafficking, sexual tourism, and domestic violence. Although Costa Rica has some of the most favorable economic indices in Central America, the percentage of the population living in poverty has increased significantly in recent years. About three-quarters of Costa Ricans are Roman Catholic and approximately 15 percent are Protestant.
Partner organization
Latin American Biblical University (UBL) – The Latin American Biblical Seminary (LABS) opened in San José in 1923 as an institute where students could learn theology and nursing skills to serve in all Latin America. Since 1997 the seminary has been an accredited Costa Rican university, which makes it an even more influential and well-known institution throughout Latin America. Its theological education program is carried out in 19 centers in 14 countries. Programs are offered in pastoral theology, Bible, theology, church history, women and theology, and teaching and theology. Programs range from nondegree to master’s degree level. Much of the course work the students do in their home countries through programs of theological education by extension (TEE). Most students working toward a degree then attend UBL’s main campus in San José, Costa Rica, for 2–12 months in order to take specific courses for their degree track and to finish research for thesis work. The PC(USA) is privileged to have had mission personnel cooperating with UBL for many years.
Presbytery partnership
The Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Costa Rica (IEPC) – The Fraternity of Costa Rican Evangelical Churches (FIEC) officially formed in 1985 as a group of seven Protestant churches working to improve the physical and spiritual lives of the people in Costa Rica through the gospel. The FIEC is a member of the Association of Presbyterian and Reformed Churches in Latin America (AIPRAL).
Costa Rica Mission Network
The Costa Rica Mission Network is among more than 40 networks that connect Presbyterians who share a common mission interest. Most participants are involved in mission partnerships through congregations, presbyteries or synods. Network members come together to coordinate efforts, share best practices and develop strategies.
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